Loading...
We extend a wild invitation to the Middle Earth! Get ready to test your mettle with heart-pounding adventures set against mind-boggling settings, on a road trip. Treat yourself to a dose of gourmet delights and local brews. Soar to new heights and land on a glacier. Indulge in restful evenings surrounded by dreamlike landscapes. Relax amidst the soothing waters of a geothermal spa. The range of experiences is as unreal as it gets - Kia Ora New Zealand!
October to March
20 days
Adventure, Beaches, Nature & Landscape, Spa & Well-Being
Luxury boutique hotels and Premium apartments
Start Christchurch with a throwback to yesteryear with a tour of the city’s attractions on the Christchurch Vintage Tram. Feel free to wander off at will, anywhere along the slow ride. Keep a lookout for some epic street art as you go along. Glide in hushed serenity, in punting adventure, as your classically Edwardian-attired punter poles you quietly along the river. Stroll through the lush Christchurch Botanic Gardens before slipping into party mode at St Asaph Street or Poplar Lane in the evening. A fabulous first day on the South Island. Rest up, for your adventure is about to start!
The George Christchurch
In a brush with the wild at Orana Wildlife Park, witness a dramatic lion-feeding episode or walk tall with elegant giraffes. Consider catching a show at the Isaac Theatre Royal or tickle your funny bones with a comedy gig. Exhilaration meets serenity as you take off into the blue skies in a colourful hot air balloon soaring over Canterbury Plains. Floating over the dreamy landscape, fill your eyes with visions of the green countryside and brown-white Southern Alps. Who needs ground reality on a vacation, right? End your day at the 5th street, a bespoke restaurant located in an old warehouse in Christchurch serving innovative creations.
The George Christchurch
Wow your senses on one of the most scenic rail routes in the world, riding the 5-hour long TranzAlpine from Christchurch to Greymouth. Traverse through diverse landscapes, from fertile plains to rugged mountains and revel in panoramic views through large windows and open-air carriages, witnessing the towering peaks of the Southern Alps, the dramatic gorges of the Waimakariri River, and the breathtaking vistas of Arthur's Pass National Park. Rent a car at Greymouth and drive towards Franz Josef for more spectacular views along the Great Coast Road.
Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Soar from sea level to the heart of the magnificent Southern Alps with the Franz Josef Helicopter Glacier Landing. Up close and personal with pristine ice-falls in the remote alpine region, know the real meaning of quietude. Back on the ground, drive to Wanaka, traversing through thick forests and crossing the spectacular Haast Pass. Put on your walking shoes in Wanaka. Build up the tempo by taking a stroll on Waterfall Creek Track, admiring the views of the lake and Wanaka township. How about some biking and a picnic for two in this verdant setting?
Wanaka Haven Lodge
Head to the adventure capital of the country, Queenstown. Time to literally ‘chill out’ at one of the city’s famous ice bars, sipping icy cocktails and admiring fascinating ice sculptures. Later, relax by the lakeside and lose touch with reality watching the melodrama created by the Remarkables against the sheer calm of Lake Wakatipu. You may be inspired to book a leisurely Lake Wakatipu cruise on the TSS Earnslaw, a century-old steamship. On disembarking, luxuriate in nothingness with a long stroll along the lakeside, with the glittering midnight blues of the skies for company.
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
Time for some adrenaline-pumping, in true NZ style as you go Skydiving high above the Wakatipu basin! Freefalling from a lofty height, forget about that pounding heart and focus on upside-down turquoise lakes and jagged mountain peaks. Push the limits of endurance again with a Shotover Jet Boat Experience through sharp, narrow canyons and scream your lungs out as the boat performs exhilarating 360° spins on the rapid gushing waters. In the evening, take it easy again at the Queenstown Mall, enjoy high- street shopping, and spoil yourself with some fine New Zealand dining with a view, at the Nest Kitchen & Bar.
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
A trip of a lifetime lies ahead on a mind-numbing picturesque route of snow-capped peaks, gushing streams, mirror lakes, and ancient rainforests, all from the comfort of a luxury glass roof coach. At Milford Sound Fjord, cruise over inky, glassy waters and encounter true timelessness as you gasp at rugged, fog-draped mountains and hundreds of waterfalls tumbling down sheer cliff faces. Learn about the region's geology and Maori legends and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as sighting seals and dolphins is common around one of the world’s most stunning landscapes.
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
Prepare for an animal encounter this morning with a visit to Deer Park Heights. Then drive to the beautiful town of Glenorchy through a road full of emerald lake waters and bush-clad hills, against majestic mountains. Treat yourself to a feast for the senses at Glenorchy Lagoon, the ultimate location for a scenic picnic experience. Revisit the magic of Middle-earth on the journey back by exploring iconic filming locations from The Lord of the Rings. Ascend the Skyline Gondola, the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere, to marvel at the stunning views of the mountains, the city, and Lake Wakatipu, one last time.
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
Chart your course to Tekapo, along the sprawling vineyards of Gibbston, the formidable Lindis Pass, and the glide-lover’s paradise of Omarama. At Lake Tekapo, drool over the aquamarine hues of the water showcased against the whiteness of the snow-capped mountains and the vibrancy of the wildflower- dotted grassy carpets. Find the most perfect picture frame of the Southern Alps beyond the lake from the altar of the Church of the Good Shepherd. Starry-eyed is the only way to be when you hike or drive up to the Mount John Observatory, with the sparkling skies overhead and the magnificent Mackenzie Basin sprawling at your feet.
Ranginui at Lake Tekapo
Time for the North Island now! Get your taste buds cracking with a gourmet experience at the culinary, cafe, and coffee capital (and the actual capital) of New Zealand. Halt at some of the best bars, restaurants, food stores, and coffee roasters, satiate your appetite to its limit. Burn off the holiday calories with an easy hike to Mount Victoria's lookout for a spectacular city view. Take a piece of Wellington home with you from Hannahs Laneway and shop for the bohemian style at the Cuba Street.
Bolton Hotel
Let time slip away as you relax on the golden sands of Oriental Bay, Wellington's beach paradise. Or jaunt around the many museums and art galleries that define the cultural scene, with Te Papa, the national museum, stealing the spotlight! Treat yourself to some epic views of the city as you ride the historic cable car. Learn all about New Zealand's unique version of democracy with a tour around the country's Parliament. Add a touch of local flavour to the journey with a brewery tour, where you can indulge in the distinct tastes of Garage Project, Parrotdog, and Tuatara Brewery, three pillars of the region's brewing excellence.
Bolton Hotel
Dig further into the North Island and drive to Rotorua. Spend the morning exploring Waimangu Volcanic Valley, home to the world's youngest geothermal system. Walk through the valley, observing hot springs, steaming cliffs, and the Frying Pan Lake. Consider a relaxing evening and soak in the internationally acclaimed Polynesian Spa, choosing sumptuous therapies like hot mineral spring baths amidst the tranquil surroundings of Lake Rotorua. Rest for a while before heading out to revel in the cheerful atmosphere of Eat Street, where a variety of gastronomic pleasures tempt you under a covered central walkway.
On the Point Lake Rotorua
Escape to Whakarewarewa Forest for an exciting tree walk over 21 suspension bridges between giant Californian Redwoods. Venture into the heart of Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley and witness the dynamic display of bubbling mud pools and geysers. Learn about the history of the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand, the Maoris and geothermal activity that characterises this fascinating region. The evening is booked for an authentic Maori cultural experience at Te Puia village. Enjoy the Hangi-cooked Maori feast and illuminated moments with the geothermal wonder that is the Pohutu Geyser, under the night sky.
On the Point Lake Rotorua
Drive through lake-land and forest to the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves for an electrifying spectacle of nature. Glide silently on a boat under the blue luminescence sprayed on the inner walls of the caves in a starry wonderland. Later, at the Rainbow Springs National Park, dive deep into the world of New Zealand’s environment and native animals. Kiwis, the country’s national symbol, flaunt themselves in a unique glass-free, open-air environment. At night, allow the serenity of the lakefront to take over your senses topped off by a moment of enchanting stargazing.
On the Point Lake Rotorua
Rise early and head for a quick hike to the top of Mount Maunganui, to watch the most spectacular sunrise ever! Keep the adrenaline pumping as next on the list is a surf lesson at one of the best beaches in all of New Zealand, the Mount Maunganui’s Main Beach. If the activities have stirred up an appetite, head to Izakai Bar and Eatery for a unique Maori Japanese fusion meal. Rejuvenate in the soothing hot pools nestled at the foot of Mount Maunganui or better yet, treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage, a perfect finale to your day.
On the Point Lake Rotorua
Departing from Rotorua to the Bay of Islands in a full day drive, stop at the extraordinary town of Matamata, home to The Hobbiton Movie Set created for the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films. Sign up for the movie tour to experience Middle Earth on the lush pastures of the Shire. Enjoy a feast inspired by the whimsical world of Hobbits at the Shire’s Rest Cafe. Then go on a quest for the perfect keepsake in the shops at Hobbiton. Take a spin through the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park. Soak in the jaw-dropping scenic beauty of the forested landscape before trading trees for waves on the coast!
Marina Cove Bay of Islands
After an extended breakfast at the hotel, embark on a delightful cruise to the Bay of Islands. Skimming over jewel-blue Pacific waters, spot rare marine life, including whales and zone out at the Insta-famous Hole in the Rock. Delve into the secrets of mangrove forests, witness a lively colony of seabirds nesting in the canopy above, and finally, arrive at a breathtaking destination where a waterfall gracefully tumbles into the sea. Later, back on the mainland, pamper yourself by wandering around the pretty town of Russell. The glorious day ends with a moonlit stroll and a romantic waterfront dinner at the Butterfish restaurant.
Marina Cove Bay of Islands
Get ready for a wild ride on a full-day escapade to Cape Reinga in the Far North! First on the agenda are the Te Paki Sand Dunes. Brace for the ultimate sandy adventure as you try sandboarding down these colossal dunes. Prepare for a tree-rific experience at the Puketi Kauri Forest. Get up close and personal with the ancient giant kauri trees and finally, be spellbound at the iconic Cape Reinga Lighthouse! Journey along the windswept expanse of the Ninety Mile Beach. Stand in awe as the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean come together in a breathtaking spectacle, creating an infinity view at the tip of the Aupouri Peninsula.
Marina Cove Bay of Islands
In the journey towards Auckland, melt into painting-like canvases at Whangarei Falls. In the country’s most buzzing city, soar to heights of drama at Mount Eden, a dormant volcanic cone offering unparalleled views. Dive fork-first into the delicious dilemma of lunch at either the swanky Ponsonby neighbourhood or the lively Viaduct Harbour! Later on, things are bound to get dizzy as we dare you to take on the Sky Walk at the tallest building of New Zealand. Later, unleash your inner glam at the world- class casino in the dazzling SkyCity entertainment complex. The award-winning Ahi would be a great place for dinner today!
The Hotel Britomart
For the grand finale of this awesome New Zealand trip, let’s visit the enchanting Parnell Village. Immerse in its historic charm, strolling through streets adorned with boutique shops and art galleries. Come afternoon, take the ferry to Waiheke Island along scenic views of the Auckland skyline and the Hauraki Gulf. Upon arrival, succumb to the lap of luxury on a Waiheke Wine Tour, where fine wines and delectable snacks await amidst olive groves and rustic herb gardens. Back in Auckland, dance your heart out to the vibrant beats of Britomart, calling it an end to the sweet echoes of your Kiwi adventure.
The Hotel Britomart
Copyright 2024 Tripoetic Travel Planners LLP |
All Rights Reserved.
